Blue Glasses Math

What if the missing piece in math education isn't a strategy — it's regulation? Breathwork coach Ashlee Livingstone joins Pam Brett for a conversation about what happens when teachers and students show up depleted — and what becomes possible when we don't. Ashlee shares her own complicated math story, the science behind why survival mode shuts down our capacity to hold space, and why b...

What does it really mean to build a connected math journey — for students and for teachers? In this episode, Pam sits down with Ann Elise Record, elementary math consultant, coach, and co-author of Fluency Doesn't Just Happen series, for a conversation that is equal parts inspiring, honest, and deeply practical. Ann Elise shares her own math story: from being a memorization champion who "...

Discover how emotions influence learning in math classrooms through the lens of cognitive neuroscience. In this episode, Liesl McConchie shares groundbreaking insights on the emotional messages students carry, the importance of teachers understanding these emotional "watercolors," and practical activities to support positive math identities. Perfect for educators, parents, and officials...

In this engaging interview, Robert Kaplinsky shares his journey into math education, the power of open middle problems, and the importance of evolving teaching standards to match the rapid changes in society and technology. Discover insights on professional development, student engagement, and how to foster a growth mindset in math learning. Connect with Dr. Pam Brett: insta: @BlueGlassesMath blue...

In this episode, Dr. Lauren Fullmer discusses the intersection of social-emotional learning, equity, and mathematics education. She shares her personal math journey, insights on dyscalculia, and strategies for supporting diverse learners to foster a positive math identity. Connect with Dr. Pam Brett: insta: @BlueGlassesMath bluesky: @pambrett.bsky.social linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamel...

In this episode, Pam Brett explores the challenges and realities of digital learning, student motivation, and over-engineering education. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity, meaningful engagement, and simple, effective teaching strategies to foster genuine learning and connection. Connect with Pam:insta: @BlueGlassesMathbluesky: @pambrett.bsky.sociallinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pa...

Ted Dintersmith shares his extensive journey through math, highlighting the importance of understanding mathematical ideas over mechanics, and advocating for relevance and creativity in math education. Ted Dintersmith focuses on the urgent need to equip humans with competencies to lead purposeful lives in an age of rapidly advancing machine intelligence. He’s produced three education films that pr...

In this engaging interview, Dr. Nicki Newton shares her inspiring journey from a reluctant math learner to a passionate educator and advocate for joyful, inquiry-based math teaching. Discover her insights on fostering curiosity, the power of vulnerability in teaching, and the transformative potential of AI in education. Connect with Pam: insta: @BlueGlassesMath bluesky: @pambrett.bsky.social linke...

In this engaging interview, Marsha Familaro Enright shares her insights on Montessori education, innovative programs for young adults, and the importance of fostering reasoning, creativity, and love of learning in children and students. Discover how her programs are shaping future thinkers and why a shift in educational paradigms is essential for human development. Connect with Pam: insta: @BlueGl...

In this insightful interview, Melissa Dean, a high school teacher and author, shares her journey of reimagining assessment and learning in math classrooms. Discover how shifting assessment practices can transform student engagement, foster deeper understanding, and build a growth mindset. Connect with Pam: insta: @BlueGlassesMath bluesky: @pambrett.bsky.social linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in...

This episode features Rob Baier sharing his journey through math education, emphasizing the importance of reflection, sense-making, and authentic teaching to foster better human and mathematical understanding. Discover practical strategies for teachers to improve their practice and inspire students. Connect with Pam: insta: @BlueGlassesMath bluesky: @pambrett.bsky.social linkedin: https://www.link...

In this episode, Pam Brett discusses the often-overlooked emotional landscape in math classrooms. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the emotions that students bring into the learning environment, as these emotions significantly impact their beliefs and engagement in math. Pam advocates for co-creation in professional development, the necessity of autonomy in learning, and...

In this episode of Blue Glasses Math, host Pam Brett welcomes Michael Kenny, the founder of Math Fact Lab, to discuss his journey in math education and the development of his innovative teaching tool. Michael shares his early experiences as a teacher, initially focusing on literacy before transitioning to math instruction. He highlights the pivotal moment when he enrolled in the Vermont Mathematic...

In this episode of Blue Glasses Math, Pam Brett welcomes Dr. Rosalyn Giallanza, a passionate educator and researcher focused on multilingual learners in mathematics. The conversation begins with a nostalgic reflection on their early professional relationship, highlighting the challenges and growth they experienced together in the classroom. Dr. Giallanza shares her journey as a multilingual learne...

In this engaging conversation, Alex Romero shares his journey in math education, influenced by his family's background in mathematics. He discusses the development of Tile Farm, a platform designed to make math beautiful and enjoyable for learners of all ages. The conversation explores the importance of joy in math education, the role of family in fostering a positive math environment, and the...

In this episode of the Blue Glasses Math podcast, Pam Brett and Alison Mello discuss the influence of self-perception on math teaching and learning. They explore Alison's journey as an 'accidental math teacher,' the importance of vulnerability in education, and the need for a supportive math environment. The conversation emphasizes the significance of using visuals and manipulatives in...

In this conversation, Pam Brett and Kate Rolland discuss the behind-the-scenes aspects of podcasting, the importance of support in business, and the transition to more efficient tools. They explore how AI can enhance social media management, the significance of building trust in collaboration, and the holistic approach to web design and business support. Kate shares insights on understanding clien...

In this engaging conversation, Pam Brett and Dan Meyer explore the transformative landscape of math education, reflecting on Dan's influential TED Talk, 'Math Class Needs a Makeover.' They discuss the importance of shifting perspectives on math, building student confidence, and the role of technology in the classroom. Dan emphasizes the need for teachers to allow students to explore an...

Talking with Courtney Flessner feels like an invitation to rethink what math education is for . In this episode, we explore why teaching math can’t be reduced to getting the right answers—and why understanding the “why” behind the math matters just as much as the “how.” Courtney pushes us to ask brave questions about our practice, to sit with discomfort, and to see reflection as an act of care for...

Christopher Danielson has a way of making math feel more human, more joyful, and more deeply connected to the curiosity we all carry. In this episode, we talk about the math stories that shaped us, the importance of teachers doing real math, and what it means to truly listen to children’s thinking. Christopher also shares the heart behind Math on a Stick , his playful State Fair initiative that in...

I instantly knew I wanted to be Shelby's friend when I met her in Atlanta this Fall at the NCSM Annual Meeting. Not only does she seem to know everyone in math education, she carries herself with a warmth and wholeheartedness that’s impossible to miss. Shelby is the kind of educator who leads with joy, connection, and a deep belief in students. In this episode, Shelby joins me to talk about th...

What’s your math story? In this episode, Kristen Acosta brings us into hers—and invites us to reimagine math as a subject filled with movement, conversation, and curiosity. Known for her innovative use of clothesline math, Kristen shares how she makes learning visual, kinesthetic, and joyfully human in her classroom and in professional learning experiences. Kristen helps us with actionable strateg...

In this episode, I delve into the importance of emotions in math education. Teaching math isn't just about facts and procedures; it's about how students feel when grappling with mathematical ideas. I emphasize the need for students to experience emotions like grappling and perseverance, which are essential for learning and personal growth. Drawing from my research and two decades in math c...

What’s your math story? That’s where we begin this episode with the brilliant minds behind Smart With It , Jill Diniz and James Tanton . Together, they share powerful personal journeys—how emotions, curiosity, and frustration shaped their beliefs about mathematics and, ultimately, their purpose as math educators. Jill and James speak with honesty and heart about what it means to be “smart with it”...

In this episode of Blue Glasses Math,  I welcome Jen Dalton, Math Department Chair at New England Innovation Academy. We discuss the importance of building trust with students, and innovative teaching methods that integrate real-world applications and cross-disciplinary skills. Takeways Building trust with students is crucial for a successful learning environment. Real-world applications make math...